Funding for Additional Small Craft Harbour Projects to Benefit Fishermen in Nova Scotia

HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA--(Marketwired - April 2, 2013) - Parliamentary Secretary Gerald Keddy, for the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Regional Minister for Nova Scotia, on behalf of the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, announced today $660,000 in funding for two additional repair and improvement projects at small craft harbours in
Nova Scotia.

"Our government is committed to improving small craft harbours in Nova Scotia so that individuals employed in our fisheries can continue to earn a living and successfully contribute to the local economy," said Gerald Keddy, MP for South Shore - St. Margaret's. "By investing in small craft harbours our government is ensuring that those who work in the fishery have safe and functional facilities for years to come."

"Safe and efficient fishing harbours are critical to those who make their living from the fishery," said Minister Ashfield. "The projects we are announcing today will improve the safety and operational efficiency of several harbours across the country. Our Government continues to invest in coastal communities and prepare Canada's fishing industry for the future."

This work is in addition to major projects and dredging work being carried out at approximately 95 fishing harbours throughout the country, announced in July 2012. The $660,000 in funding is in support of the following projects:

Completed breakwater repairs at New Harbour (Guysborough County) to improve harbour conditions and minimize the effects of future storm damage.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada undertakes these projects in cooperation with the local harbour authorities that manage and operate facilities for local users. Close cooperation between the Department and harbour authorities allows the federal government to continue to provide an operable system of harbours and facilities throughout Canada in support of the commercial fishing industry.

The Government of Canada remains focused on four priorities, as outlined by the Prime Minister, that Canadians care most about: their families, the safety of our streets and communities, their pride in being a citizen of this country, and of course, their personal financial security.

For broadcast:

Government of Canada announced $660,000 in funding for additional repair and improvement projects at two small craft harbours in Nova Scotia. The work will help ensure that the harbours are safe and functional for the commercial fishing industry.